Virginia Tech officials have confirmed that two people, a Virginia Tech police officer and an unidentified person, are dead from the shooting that began Thursday afternoon.

Dana Cruikshank, communications manager for the College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech, said the incident happened shortly after noon today. The suspect was stopped during a routine traffic stop at the Coliseum parking lot near McComas Hall and the police officer was shot at the scene.

Witnesses have since reported seeing a white male in sweats and carrying backpack. They said he fled on foot.

The school plans to brief the media at 4:30 p.m.

Numerous reports have been made recently of sounds identified as gunshots and suspicious activity on campus. These recent reports have been investigated and are unfounded, an update on the school Web site read. The suspect's status remains unknown. Several law enforcement agencies are on scene to assist. Please stay where you are and secure your surroundings.

The school has also stated that exams for Friday been postponed. Students will know more as soon as information is available, the site stated.